Anthony Michael Bennett, Second Degree Murder, Michigan 2013

A horrific crime has shaken a community in Michigan’s Isabella Reservation. Anthony Michael Bennett, 21, was sentenced to 40 years in federal prison for the second degree murder of a four-year-old boy, Carnel Chamberlain.

The charges were brought against Bennett by the United States Attorney’s Office in Bay City, Michigan. The sentencing took place on December 17, 2013, before U.S. District Judge Thomas L. Ludington.

The crime, which occurred on June 21, 2012, was a brutal assault that resulted in the death of Carnel Chamberlain. Bennett, in his guilty plea, admitted to assaulting the child on three occasions, with the final assault resulting in the child’s death.

Bennett also confessed to burning the body in an attempt to conceal evidence of his crime. The investigation into the case was a collaborative effort between the Saginaw Chippewa Tribal Police, Isabella County Sheriff’s Department, Michigan State Police, and Special Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

U.S. Attorney Barbara L. McQuade expressed her gratitude for the diligent work of the investigating agents and prosecutors who were able to obtain this conviction and find some measure of justice for Carnel. Special Agent in Charge Paul M. Abbate stated that the heinous acts committed by Bennett are unspeakable and that today’s sentencing will never fill the void created by Carnel’s death, but it does ensure that the family and loved ones of the victim will not have to endure the pain associated with a trial and that justice is served through a lengthy term of imprisonment for the defendant.

The sentencing of Anthony Michael Bennett brings a sense of closure to the community, but it is a grim reminder of the devastating impact of violence on innocent lives. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of protecting children and holding perpetrators accountable for their crimes.

With this sentencing, Bennett will spend the next 40 years in federal prison, a consequence that reflects the severity of his crimes. The community can now begin to heal, but the memory of Carnel Chamberlain will never be forgotten.

Anthony Michael Bennett, 21, was sentenced to 40 years in federal prison for second degree murder on the Isabella Reservation. The crime occurred on June 21, 2012, and Bennett pleaded guilty on December 17, 2013. He was sentenced on the same day by U.S. District Judge Thomas L. Ludington.

The case was prosecuted by the Bay City branch of the United States Attorney’s Office. The investigation was conducted by the Saginaw Chippewa Tribal Police, Isabella County Sheriff’s Department, Michigan State Police, and Special Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Related Federal Cases